Be careful and conservative in your approach to using plastics.
1. Always take sniff and taste test first. If there's a hint of plastic in your water, don't drink it. Also avoid skin contact with plastics that smell funny. Remember the foul synthetic scent of vinyl shower curtains? Nasty!
2. Remember most plastics tend to break down when exposed to heat and strong detergents, so if you must reuse them clean gently with mild soap and cold water only.
3. Keep them out of direct sunlight, heat and high temperatures. Always store them in a cool, dark place.
4. Avoid microwaving drinks or food in most plastics if possible. For hot/acidic beverages, choose rigid, reusable containers or thermoses with stainless steel or ceramic interiors. For storing or heating food use Pyrex, glass or ceramic containers instead. Avoid using plastic sandwich and food wraps if possible.
5. Be careful when consuming canned foods as the lining or resins that coat the insides of the tin cans may contain Bisphenol-A. Avoid canned foods containing acidic contents like tomatoes or spaghetti sauce. Buy the ones packaged in glass jars instead.
6. Scratched and worn plastic water bottles or food containers should be discarded immediately.
7. Follow the expiration date of all items including water, soda, lotion, bodywash etc. For items that may last a long time like mouthwash or baby oil, consider relocating them to glass bottles or ceramic dispensers.
